A drop or dropped ceiling is the ceiling that is hung below the main (structural) ceiling. … The area above the dropped ceiling is called the plenum space, as it is usually used for the HVAC air return. The plenum space is also very commonly used to conceal piping, wiring, and ductwork.
What is the area above the ceiling called?
A loft is also the uppermost space in a building but is distinguished from an attic in that an attic typically constitutes an entire floor of the building, while a loft covers only a few rooms, leaving one or more sides open to the lower floor.
What is the difference between suspended ceiling and false ceiling?
Suspended ceilings are sometimes referred to as dropped ceilings or false ceilings. As their name implies, they are suspended from the structure above, usually a roof or slab. This creates a space between the underside of the structure and the upper surface of the ceiling.
How do I know if I have a plenum ceiling?
A plenum ceiling is one that uses the space between the top of the suspended ceiling and the bottom of the floor above to handle air for ventilation. … Consult the local code authority to confirm that a suspended ceiling is a plenum.Is drop ceiling plenum?
Space between the structural ceiling and the dropped ceiling or under a raised floor is typically considered plenum; however, some drop-ceiling designs create a tight seal that does not allow for airflow and therefore may not be considered a plenum air-handling space.
Why are dropped ceilings used?
Modern dropped ceilings were initially created to hide the building infrastructure, including piping, wiring, and/or ductwork, by creating a plenum space above the dropped ceiling, while allowing access for repairs and inspections. Drop ceilings may also be used to hide problems, such as structural damage.
What are the different types of ceilings?
- Conventional Ceiling. A conventional ceiling construction type is commonly found in homes. …
- Suspended Ceiling. …
- Coffered Ceiling. …
- Tray Ceiling. …
- Coved Ceiling. …
- Cathedral Ceiling. …
- Shed Ceiling. …
- Beam Ceiling.
Is drywall or drop ceiling better?
Many homeowners see deciding between drywall vs drop ceilings as a matter of choosing between aesthetics and accessibility. A drywall ceiling or hard ceiling is perceived as looking more finished and attractive. However, a drop ceiling offers easy access to your home’s important pipes and ducts.What is a dropped ceiling called?
A suspended ceiling is the exact same thing as a drop ceiling, also called a dropped ceiling. These terms refer to a type of ceiling paneling that hangs below the main structural ceiling.
Where is the plenum located?Plenum boxes are usually situated on either side of the fan or heat exchanger and have the important function of bringing in, distributing, and removing air. They are the air’s first stop after being heated or cooled and its last stop before going back into your AC, heat pump, or furnace.
Article first time published onCan you run PVC in a plenum ceiling?
Fact: PVC should not be installed in a plenum. It is classified as a combustible material per ASTM E 136.
What is the difference between a plenum and a duct?
A plenum is an air distribution box designed for forced-air systems on residential homes and commercial businesses. It is part of the ductwork, but far different than an air duct as these important boxes handle air as it enters the ducts and helps to recirculate it within a system.
What is a drop ceiling in a basement?
Suspended on steel wires from the basement ceiling joists, a drop ceiling consists of a lightweight steel grid that supports ceiling tiles and light fixtures. This type of ceiling offers important advantages in a finished basement, including access to utilities, and mold- and sag-resistance.
What are the types of suspended ceilings?
There are three types of drop ceiling systems — clip-in, hook-on, and lay-in — each featuring a different framework and a unique method for attaching the tiles.
How long does drop ceiling last?
You might be surprised to know that ceiling tiles are designed to last around ten years. After ten years, if they haven’t been damaged or discolored by some other factor, they may start to become brittle. Older tiles can warp and even break. Ceiling tiles now come in a variety of materials.
Do you need plenum cable in an open ceiling?
If there is no sheet metal duct; just the open ceiling or wall space, then you are required by law to use Plenum Rated cable. … The lack of wall or ceiling return air grates is usually a sure sign that you require Plenum Rated Cable. Computer Rooms typically use a raised flooring system for the server racks.
How do I know if I have plenum cable?
Look for CMP(means Communications Plenum Cable) ,CL3P(Shielded Multi-Conductor Plenum Security Cable) , or CL2P(Class 2 plenum cable ) marked on the cable. Plenum cable is covered with a fire proof plastic layer of either a low-smoke polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or a fluorinated ethylene polymer (FEP).
What is the latest trend in ceiling finishes?
One of the recent trends for ceilings is an ultra-glossy, reflective finish that shines. A glossy surface tricks the eye so the room feels larger, especially with lighter colors and furniture in place. However, the surface needs to be polished smooth so no bumps show if using paint.
What type of ceiling is popular?
Conventional Ceiling Conventional ceilings are both functional and pleasing to the eye. One of the most common ceiling types, conventional ceilings fit standard wall heights (8 – 9 feet) but also work for taller rooms too.
What is cathedral ceiling?
Vaulted and Cathedral Ceilings A vaulted ceiling slopes upward from both sides to form a peak. … On the other hand, cathedral ceilings are defined by their symmetry: they feature two equal sloping sides that meet at a higher point in the middle and often conform to the shape of the roof.
Does drop ceiling reduce noise?
Acoustical drop ceilings can help provide soundproofing in two different ways: either by absorbing sound waves, thus preventing sounds from bouncing around the room, or by blocking sound from traveling to an adjacent room. Some drop ceilings have both capabilities, while some have one or the other.
How much space does a drop ceiling need?
Most modern drop ceilings are designed to have a 3-inch space between the tracking grid and the rafters. Some older systems require extra maneuvering room. The 18-inch tiles in these systems require at least 20 inches above the tracking grid, and 2-foot-square panels require an even larger space.
Why do older homes have low ceilings?
In antique homes of the 1700s, ceilings were typically just 7′ tall. Those homes with low ceilings and small rooms were structured so they could be easily heated by a fireplace. … These older homes had lower ceilings and smaller rooms so they could be easily heated by a fireplace.
Is drop ceiling cheaper than drywall?
Drop ceilings are more expensive to install than drywall making drywall the cheaper option. However, if you can install a drop ceiling by yourself, you can save on labor costs. You should also factor in paint costs for a drywall ceiling and whether you are hiring a professional to install and paint for you.
Are drop ceilings expensive?
Is it cheaper to drywall or drop ceiling? At $5 to $28 per square foot, drop ceilings are more expensive to install than drywall. Installing drywall costs $1 to $3 per square foot but that does not include painting prices, which are $2 to $6 for each square foot.
What is a hard lid ceiling?
A hard lid ceiling is specifically referring to the top (lid) of the structure, attached to framing or directly to the roof deck, usually constructed with fire rated gypsum wall board, but also plaster, or even concrete.
Can you Sheetrock over a drop ceiling?
In some homes, drop ceilings conceal utility pipes, duct work and electrical wiring. Rather than reroute them, you have two choices: Create boxes constructed from wood framing and drywall and install the ceiling drywall around these items, or create your own suspended ceiling with a new, framed ceiling.
What is the easiest ceiling to install?
Surface-mount ceiling tiles are easy to install. The grid for this system is much easier that the drop-ceiling grid, and the tiles attach directly to the grid. This is another project that can be done by one person, and in most cases, the tiles that go into place can be easily cut to size using scissors.
What is the cheapest way to finish a basement ceiling?
Thin wood paneling — typically 1/8- to 1/4-inch thick — can cover an exposed ceiling, and it’s available in a variety of designs. Fir plywood, hardboard, even oriented-strand-board (OSB) are even more affordable, but these less-expensive options typically require paint or sealant.
What is plenum used for?
In building construction Plenum is a separate space provided for air circulation for heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning. It is commonly found in the space between the structural ceiling and a drop-down ceiling or under a raised floor.
What is inside a plenum?
A plenum is an air-distribution box attached directly to the supply outlet of the HVAC equipment that heats or cools the air to make the house comfortable. … The HVAC equipment has a blower that forces heated or cooled air into the supply plenum and from the plenum into the rooms through the supply duct system.
